Representative Henry Cuellar shares his harrowing experience of being carjacked at gunpoint on Monday night.
According to Cuellar, he was arriving at his place when three individuals emerged out of nowhere and aimed firearms at him. Despite having a black belt, Cuellar recognized the danger posed by three armed assailants and handed over his vehicle. In a press conference on Capitol Hill the next morning, Cuellar emphasized the importance of remaining calm during such situations and expressed his gratitude to the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department for recovering his car and phone.
Cuellar, known for his support of law enforcement, acknowledged the outstanding work done by the police and mentioned his three brothers who are also in law enforcement.
Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, talks to a member of the media during a campaign event in San Antonio, May 4, 2022.
Eric Gay/AP, FILE
President Joe Biden personally spoke with Cuellar following the incident to express his concern and condemnation of the violent act. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre remarked during Tuesday’s briefing that the administration consistently opposes all forms of violence and is grateful that Cuellar remained unharmed. Jean-Pierre also commended the swift response of law enforcement in apprehending the criminals.
The investigation into the carjacking is being led by the Capitol Police and the FBI, who have reportedly made significant progress. U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger stated that his team is fully dedicated and working around the clock to apprehend the perpetrators.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell used his time on the Senate floor to address the alarming rise in crime rates, particularly carjackings, in Washington, D.C. and across the country. McConnell emphasized the need for local leaders to take stronger action in ensuring the safety of American citizens.
Cuellar’s carjacking took place at around 9:30 p.m. in the Navy Yard neighborhood of D.C., just a few blocks away from the U.S. Capitol. According to Cuellar’s statement to the police, he was approached by three men wearing black clothing and masks, who brandished firearms and demanded the keys to his car. Fortunately, Cuellar sustained no injuries during the ordeal.
Recent statistics show that crime rates in Washington, D.C. have been escalating, with over 200 homicides recorded so far this year, representing a 28% increase compared to the previous year. The surge in crime is especially evident in Ward 6, where Cuellar was carjacked, with armed robberies rising by 95%. Carjackings across the entire district have also spiked by 57% in comparison to previous years.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has faced difficulties in combatting the crime wave due to a significant loss of 1,400 officers since 2020. The police union has attributed the rising crime rates to the policies and actions of the city council.
ABC News’ Beatrice Peterson, Molly Nagle, Rachel Scott, Jack Date, and Allison Pecorin contributed to this report.
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